Simon Grayson during his time as Sunderland Manager during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Bradford City and Sunderland at the Coral Windows Stadium, Bradford, England on 22 July 2017. Photo by Paul Thompson.

Former Leeds United and PNE boss favourite for Oxford United job

Simon Grayson during his time as Sunderland Manager during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Bradford City and Sunderland at the Coral Windows Stadium, Bradford, England on 22 July 2017. Photo by Paul Thompson.

The 48-year-old has been out of work since being sacked by Sunderland in late October following a poor run of results which left The Black Cats in serious danger of relegation to the third tier of English football.

According to the latest odds provided by English Football League sponsors Sky Bet, Grayson is the favourite for the managerial vacancy at Sky Bet League One club Oxford United. The Yellows are searching for a new manager after sacking former boss Pep Clotet last month with the club finding it difficult to replicate their early season form.

Oxford United are thought to be some way away from appointing a new boss however Grayson is the 5/2 favourite for the role ahead of Paul Ince (3/1) and Liverpool academy coach Michael Beale (4/1).

Whoever is appointed into the hotseat at The Kassam Stadium will inherit a side which still has an outside chance of reaching the play-offs. United are currently in 12th place, nine points shy of the top six but may be capable of climbing the table with some improved form.

Oxford United face a key fixture at play-off chasing Charlton Athletic on Saturday.